Isolated sleep paralysis: Clinical features, perception of aetiology, prevention and disruption strategies in a large international sample.

Isolated sleep paralysis (ISP) is a benign but frightening condition involving temporary inability to move at sleep onset or upon awakening. In an online survey of 6,811 participants (mean age 46.9, 66.1% female), those who had experienced at least one lifetime ISP episode reported longer sleep onset latencies, shorter sleep duration, and greater insomnia symptoms than those without ISP. Females and younger participants were more likely to experience ISP. Significant fear during episodes was reported by 76.0% of participants. Most (63.3%) attributed ISP to 'something in the brain,' while 7.1% endorsed supernatural causes. Five prevention strategies (e.g., changing sleep position, adjusting sleep patterns) showed at least 60.0% effectiveness, and five disruption strategies (e.g., physical/bodily action, making noise) ranged from 29.5% to 61.8% effectiveness.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Isolated sleep paralysis is a benign but frightening condition characterised by a temporary inability to move at sleep onset or upon awakening. Despite the prevalence of this condition, little is known concerning its clinical features, associated demographic characteristics, and prevention as well as disruption strategies. An online cross-sectional study was conducted. The sample comprised 3523 participants who had reported at least one lifetime episode of ISP and 3288 participants without a lifetime episode. Participants answered a survey including questions about sleep quality, sleep paralysis, and sleep paralysis prevention/disruption techniques. A total of 6811 participants were investigated (mean age = 46.9, SD = 15.4, age range = 18-89, 66.1% female). Those who reported experiencing ISP at least once during their lives reported longer sleep onset latencies, shorter sleep duration, and greater insomnia symptoms. Females (vs. male) and younger (vs. older) participants were more likely to experience ISP. Significant fear during episodes was reported by 76.0% of the participants. Most people (63.3%) who experienced ISP believed it to be caused by 'something in the brain'. A minority endorsed supernatural causes (7.1%). Five prevention strategies (e.g., changing sleep position, adjusting sleep patterns) with at least 60.0% effectiveness, and five disruption strategies (e.g., physical/bodily action, making noise) with varying degrees of effectiveness (ranging from 29.5 to 61.8) were identified through open-ended responses. ISP is associated with shorter sleep duration, longer sleep onset latency, and greater insomnia symptoms. The multiple prevention and disruption techniques identified in this study support existing treatment approaches and may inform subsequent treatment development. Implications for current diagnostic criteria are discussed.